Lord Howe Island

Discover Lord Howe Island: Paradise in the Tasman Sea | Your Ultimate Visitor Guide

Lord Howe Island is a gem of natural beauty in Australia. With its breathtaking landscapes and unique biodiversity, it’s a must-visit destination for visitors looking to explore the wonders of this beautiful country.

Nestled in the Tasman Sea, Lord Howe Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its beautiful beaches, such as Ned’s and Lagoon Beach, are perfect for sunbathing and snorkelling. The crystal clear waters teem with marine life, making it a paradise for under water enthusiasts.

One of the highlights is the Lord Howe Island Group, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. It’s home to several endemic species of birds, plants, and marine life, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The famous hike to the summit of Mount Gower rewards hikers with fantastic views of the island and its lush greenery.

When it comes to accommodations and experiences, you’re in luck! Lord Howe Island boasts a selection of eco-friendly lodges and boutique hotels that offer a comfortable and immersive stay. Don’t miss out on snorkelling, scuba diving, and exploring the trails.

Lord Howe Island Map

Things to do on Lord Howe Island

Snorkelling and Diving:

Lord Howe Island offers some of the world’s best snorkelling and diving spots. Visitors can explore the vibrant coral reefs, swim with fish, and even encounter green and loggerheads. The clear waters and diverse marine life make this a must do activity.

Hiking and Bushwalking

The island boasts an extensive network of walking trails suitable for various fitness levels. The hike to Mount Gower is a challenging but rewarding experience, offering beautiful views of the lush landscape. There are also shorter walks like the Transit Hill Track, which provides excellent island vistas.

Birdwatching

Lord Howe Island is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 bird species, many of which are unique. Some avian highlights include the Providence Petrel, the Red-tailed Tropicbird, and the endemic Lord Howe Woodhen. Bird enthusiasts can spot these species in their natural habitats.

Fishing

There are excellent opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can go to Reef or deep-sea fishing to catch species like kingfish, snapper, and marlin. It’s a great way to experience the wonderful marine life.

Relax on the Beach

Lord Howe Island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia. Ned’s Beach is particularly popular for its calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and picnicking. Visitors can also hand-feed fish at low tide, a unique and memorable experience.

Golfing

There’s a 9-hole golf course with beautiful ocean views for leisurely activities. It’s a great way to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Exploring the coast by kayak or paddleboard is a serene way to connect with nature. Paddle along the tranquil lagoon or explore the hidden coves.

Local Dining

Encourage visitors to savour fresh seafood and locally sourced cuisine—partner with local restaurants and cafes to offer unique dining experiences that showcase the island’s flavours.

Stargazing

Lord Howe Island is designated as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it an ideal place for stargazing. Promote night time activities like stargazing tours or encourage visitors to gaze at the spectacular southern hemisphere night sky.

Lord Howe Island Attractions

1. Ned’s Beach

Start your journey at the iconic Ned’s Beach, known for its beautiful white sand and crystal clear waters. This Beach is perfect for sunbathing and offers a unique experience of hand feeding fish in the shallow waters during low tide. It’s a family-friendly and interactive attraction.

2. Mount Gower

For the adventurous visitor, hiking to the summit of Mount Gower is a must. This challenging trek rewards hikers with fantastic panoramic views of the island and its lush landscapes. The journey is as remarkable as the destination, with diverse flora and fauna.

3. The Lord Howe Island Group

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island Group, which includes several islets and rock formations. These islets are home to rare and endemic species of plants and birds, making them a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

4. Lagoon Beach

Lagoon Beach is another picturesque spot for beachgoers. It offers a tranquil setting and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply unwinding with the sound of gentle waves.

5. Birdwatching

With over 200 bird species unique to the island, Lord Howe Island is a haven for birdwatchers. Watch for the Providence Petrel, the Red-tailed Tropicbird, and the endemic Lord Howe Woodhen while exploring the trails.

6. Admiralty Islands

These islands offer exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities. Dive into the clear waters and discover an under water world teeming with vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including reef fish, sharks, and rays.

7. North Bay

This secluded bay is a paradise for snorkelers and kayakers. The calm waters and diverse marine life make it an excellent spot to observe under water wonders. Paddle out and explore the hidden coves and caves that dot the coastline.

8. Underwater Tours

If you’re not a diver, you can still explore the under water beauty of Lord Howe Island through glass-bottom boat tours or snorkeling tours with knowledgeable guides. These tours offer an up close look at the island’s marine ecosystem.

9. Stargazing

Lord Howe Island is designated as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, making it one of the best places for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy clear views of the southern hemisphere’s night sky and even join guided stargazing tours.

10. Local Dining

End your day with a taste of the island’s culinary delights. Partner with local restaurants and cafes to showcase fresh seafood and locally sourced dishes that reflect the island’s unique flavours.

Dive into the Underwater Wonderland of Lord Howe Island

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable underwater adventure? Lord Howe Island offers some of Australia’s most spectacular dive sites, and our dive tours are your ticket to exploring the mesmerizing depths of this pristine marine paradise.

Crystal Clear Waters and Vibrant Coral Reefs

As you descend into the crystal clear waters surrounding Lord Howe Island, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours. The vibrant coral reefs here are home to an incredible array of marine life, from colourful tropical fish to majestic sea turtles. The visibility is often exceptional, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the under water spectacle.

World-Class Dive Sites

Lord Howe Island boasts an impressive lineup of dive sites suitable for divers of all levels. Here are a few highlights:

The Admiralty

This site is renowned for its dramatic drop-offs and stunning coral formations. Encounter schools of surgeonfish, parrotfish, and angelfish as you explore the depths.

Erscott’s Hole

Advanced divers will be in awe of Erscott’s Hole, a deep underwater cavern teeming with life. Keep your eyes peeled for wobbegong sharks and elusive sea snakes.

Ball’s Pyramid

For the adventurous, consider a trip to Ball’s Pyramid, the world’s tallest sea stack. It’s a challenging dive, but the rewards are incredible, with sightings of hammerhead sharks and unique coral formations.

Guided Tours with Experienced Instructors

Our dive tours are led by experienced instructors who know these waters like the back of their hand. They prioritize safety while ensuring you have the most enriching and exhilarating dive experience. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, the guides will tailor the tour to your skill level.

Eco-Friendly Diving

Lord Howe Island is committed to preserving its marine ecosystem. Dive operators adhere to strict eco-friendly practices to protect the reefs and their inhabitants. By choosing our dive tours, you’re contributing to the conservation efforts of this unique underwater world.

Book Your Dive Adventure Today

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the underwater wonders of Lord Howe Island. Book your dive tour with us and prepare for an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish forever. Whether capturing the beauty through your camera lens or simply taking it all in, you’ll be captivated by the magic beneath the surface.

FAQ’s Lord Howe Island

Next, explore more wonderful dive locations.